What’s the best way to share boats and ships in multiplayer?

Sharing boats and ships in Valheim multiplayer is essential for efficient exploration and resource gathering. Boats are vital for traversing the game''s vast oceans and reaching distant biomes like the Swamp, Plains, and Mistlands. However, coordinating boat usage among multiple players can be tricky without proper planning. Here’s a detailed guide to help you share boats effectively.\n\nFirst, understand the types of boats available in Valheim. The three main types are the Raft, Karve, and Longship. The Raft is the simplest and cheapest to build, requiring only 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. The Karve, which is faster and more durable, requires 30 Fine Wood, 10 Deer Hide, 20 Resin, and 80 Bronze Nails. The Longship, the largest and most robust, requires 100 Iron Nails, 40 Fine Wood, 10 Deer Hide, and 40 Ancient Bark. Each boat type has its own storage capacity and speed, so choose based on your group’s needs.\n\nTo share a boat, the simplest method is to designate one player as the captain. The captain is responsible for steering the boat, while other players can assist by rowing or keeping watch for enemies like Serpents or Leeches. To row, players must stand near the oars and press the interact key (default E). This allows multiple players to contribute to the boat’s speed, making it easier to outrun threats or reach destinations faster.\n\nAnother effective strategy is to build multiple boats for your group. This is especially useful if your team splits up to explore different areas. For example, one group can take a Karve to gather resources in the Swamp, while another uses a Longship to explore the Plains. To build multiple boats, ensure your group has gathered enough materials and has access to a Workbench near the water. Crafting a boat requires placing it in shallow water, so choose a suitable shoreline.\n\nOne common challenge is losing boats due to enemy attacks or accidental destruction. To prevent this, always park boats in safe locations, such as near a player-built dock or in shallow water where enemies cannot reach. Additionally, assign a player to guard the boat while others explore. If a boat is destroyed, its materials will float in the water, allowing you to recover most of the resources. However, it’s better to avoid this situation by being cautious.\n\nFor long-term boat sharing, consider building a shared dock at your base. A dock provides a safe place to store boats and makes it easier for players to access them. To build a dock, use Wood or Core Wood to create a platform extending into the water. Add stairs or ladders for easy access, and consider adding a roof to protect the boats from weather damage. A well-designed dock can save time and reduce the risk of losing boats.\n\nFinally, communication is key when sharing boats in multiplayer. Use in-game chat or voice communication tools to coordinate movements and assign roles. For example, one player can navigate while another keeps an eye on the map. This ensures smooth sailing and minimizes the risk of getting lost or separated.\n\nIn summary, sharing boats in Valheim multiplayer requires planning, coordination, and proper resource management. Choose the right boat for your needs, build multiple boats if necessary, and always protect them from threats. By following these tips, your group can explore Valheim’s vast world efficiently and safely.